THINGS I DON'T DECORATE WITH ANYMORE

What are the things you no longer decorate with? What do you love now instead?
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[@terrykobrenski4781]

My home is a place where I want to feel safe, calm, cozy, and comfortable. Family photos evoke those feelings for me. I don’t have a ton of photos on display but I have picked 2 spots where I have a few of them. Family is everything to me and since they don’t live with me their pictures help make my house a home.

[@marthaspiegel1303]

Valentina, I happen to agree with you on all those items you don’t like to decorate with. That said, you shouldn’t apologize to those who like those things. It’s great you said that everyone should go with what they love, but this is your channel and obviously you’re going to show what you love. So don’t worry - you won’t offend!

[@lilyroza]

I think it's okay that she apologizes. She knows that her viewers love their homes and their stuff, and no one wants to hear bad news about their treasures. These videos are of no practical use to people who already agree with her. Of course, we don't have to always agree with her. But for those times when her message hits home, maybe, by apologizing, she is trying to enlighten us gently

[@pippadawg7037]

​@@lilyroza Agree? There is nothing to agree or disagree about and no reason to apologize. It is her house and she should include and exclude as she pleases as should you. It is vital to choose so that you achieve a cohesive and intentional look. But what I don't "like" is the idea that a space can only be "sophisticated, calm or modern" if it excludes or includes certain colors, or items. For example I don't and won't include massive oversized objet d'art (like big round balls),, drum lampshades, ceiling fans, gray/black painted walls, black textiles, big puffy duvets, vase collections that look like they all came from the same place in glossy or flat finish, or polyurethane faux Persian rugs. But I never had to edit these things out or toss them because I never purchased them in the first place. It is good to know what you truly love or hate so you don't make her mistakes and buy red sofas, or turquoise chairs, striped rugs and then have to get rid of them. However if you choose this path you and she will both come to hate it all in a short while and you will be repeating the process which is expensive and unsettling. That is why you must be "enlightened gently" because you are undoing mistakes you made chasing trends brought to your by Pottery Barn or Restoration Hardware. It is like Coke or Pepsi, different but the same too. Most decorators are one trick ponies who endlessly chase trends, and you had better love her house because that is what she will give you and often the end result is very commercial like the inside of a boutique hotel lobby or clothing store. You will hear, "I don't like this or that" but in reality those things aren't trending at RH or PB. On the other hand you could look to the great decorators- not on HGTV either that is Coke or Pepsi repackaged. Let them truly enlighten you to what speaks to you and transcends trends. Check out the great decorators of the past and buy their books. When you see their choices -dated but still speaking to you it will give you a hint to your real style. Decorators like Billy Baldwin,, Jean Michel Frank, Sister Parish, Albert Hadley, and of course Mario Buatta. Then look a the great decortators now like Bunny Williams Miles Redd, Rita Konig, (my 3 favorites), Kathryn Ireland, Beata Heuman Emily Summers, Ken Fulk, Richard Meier, Vicky Charles, Nina Campbell (now and back then), Alberto Pino, Thom Filicia. The world is your oyster decorate it your way and to your taste.

[@thea1936]

Regarding family photos… I don’t decorate with them because I feel like it my family is frozen in time, not dynamic. 🤷‍♀️ Crazy? Probably.

[@reneeburich9497]

I love little photos here and there with our grandkids. They’re our favorite people and we love being around those photos ❤

[@theshells6873]

Family photos are about the people we love and the times we share with them, if not this then what is a home for?

[@annlatham]

there is a digital pic frame that is pretty cool that i’ve seen in a couple of homes

[@juverparadox]

Family photos belong in an album not on the wall. No one cares to see them - look at the album if you forgot how your family looks like.

[@theshells6873]

@@juverparadox What planet do you live on? People love looking at photos on tabletops in frames - when well-done photos become art on the walls, they are often conversation starters - but yes, because family photos are so popular people will often pick up the album as well --- strangers will come into your front door and randomly ask if the people on the welcoming table are your kids ---- choose nice photos --- As for Claims that Valentina decorates in neutrals - in her case, and in her house - Valentina's black and white scape are colours, not neutrals --- FYI - Valentina is fun to watch, her style for her, works, and some people love it - well done Valentina ---

[@lillieherrera6564]

I agree. I’ve come to a place where I want my decor and art work to have real meaning. She showed a wall that had small prints in large frames, I’d love to have the pictures be of those I love in them. Even if it’s my loved ones walking away from me in a big city or part of a country theme. We can make our family photos look like beautiful art work… love ya V❤

[@vivianaventrone8037]

Valentina, I was so relieved to hear you say that you don't decorate with family photos! I thought I was the only one! Lol! And I don't care for hanging quilts/blankets on walls however I do love seeing a gorgeous old rug hanging..... to me it's art! Have a great day!

[@glowc2911]

Quits are so sad. I don’t like quilts (maybe only one and let me pick out the material). I am in Minnesota-hope no one sees this-but everyone loves quilts but me. They are always giving them as gifts. Also, you can never ever get rid of a quilt since there is so much effort, time, and love that goes into them… 😢

[@GEOMETRICINK]

I never displayed family photos and always felt so guilty about it! I instead put my favorite photos into books and will flip through them occasionally with my kids. Glad to see in the comments that others do the same thing. ❤

[@nikieberhardt4624]

Good for you. It's so tacky

[@crownvictoria4226]

I think my 4yr old car/truck/motorcycle obsessed boy will love a vase in his room besides some cool vehicles. 😂 Girl Sthapppp!! So I think…they’re only little for such a short short time if he wants a helicopter airplane room, he’s getting it. It doesn’t last, but with children, what does!? I can control the rest of the house but I want his room to be a cool version of what he’s into. One day he’s going to be grown man and I won’t be picking up 5 million matchbox cars from the floor anymore. When I look in his room I’ll remember how fun and lively it was, not …oh I miss his beige walls and cream duvet.

[@gemmapetersen4027]

This comment made me laugh! I love your attitude!😂

[@jilltarlow9562]

You hurt my feelings over the MCM and walnut toned woods... (I'll get over it! 😊)

[@daleman2703]

Walnut wood, can be so elegant.❤️

[@ellenhawkins128]

I don’t do quilts on walls, but I have one large rug woven by a family of Native American artisans in a very minimalist style in cream, charcoal, and gray of a bison with a lightening bolt and border patterns. I knew it was going home with me when I saw it at an art show. It hangs on the 13’ wall on our stair landing. It makes me happy every time I look at it.

[@GEOMETRICINK]

That sounds beautiful. I frammed some really beautiful, authentic, mud cloth years back and I just love it. It is black and crème with geometric patterns. Very simple. Very minimal. Textiles as wall art can be lovely.

[@francine6485]

Wow I used to decorate farmhouse really kitchy cows and little antique trinkets... I'm repainting everything and I told my husband I don't want any of that anymore I'm a grown up now I want something more sophisticated. Yes thanks for giving me permission to say no that's not me anymore.

[@donnamclaughlin9215]

I love neutrals too and like a home to be neat and organized. I have been home more lately and the house can be dark with all the trees and I began to want some pops of color. I did it with the dishes. I chose blues and greens. They were inexpensive and fun for now. Have you ever noticed that people have a negative reaction to an uncluttered and clean home? I get this reaction from time to time. I say it is calming and peaceful. I have ceiling fans which are calming too. I know most decorators do not like ceiling fans. My suggestion is to get them in the same style and the color of the ceiling (for me, white) and then it does not look like a ceiling fan store! Since I have been keeping everything more simple, I am happier and calmer. Thank you for your suggestions. I really enjoyed this video and your laughter too....

[@sharoncucina4342]

This video has helped me know that it’s okay to let go of previous styles in furniture and decor. I was trying to fit things into my new space that I spent a lot of money on. Just because of that. The money. My style has changed and I need something fresh. Thank you!

[@dianegibbs3716]

I love my memories & my tchotchkes. It makes my house a home. I have a LOT of shelves, so I still have certain special framed photos. I know it’s “out.” But my memories give me comfort.

[@joanedwards2135]

You made me think of something that I no longer decorate with, dream catchers. I look back and laugh, what was I thinking. Love your channel. ❤

[@mariastathopoulos744]

Each to their own. I find the core signature interior style stays with a person but the decor accessories change over time. Black and white is modern but it can be too much of a showroom or display home. My sister has this palette and my brother's home is warm beige neutral. My home has several colours, is cohesive and elevated through the materials of leather, wood, velvet and living plants. I want my visitors to get a sense of our family story through colour, personal family photos and decor that has come from trips and sentimental items. There are basically 2 camps: live in a home which is perpetually decorated for the next house buyer, giving the 'staged' vibe. The flip side is the home that is lived in and only for the family who reside in it. This home is sentimental and it feels welcoming. Any interior design style can be elevated simply by the scale and proportion of spaces and furniture.

[@trishac9516]

I agree! Our home is fairly eclectic in style. Neutrals mixed with color and live plants. It has a lot of character and definitely not a staged look!😊

[@Androgynary]

I’m born and raised in SoCal and my family NEVER hung blankets on the wall. I never saw other people do it in their homes either. But I tried it the other day in my bedroom and I really liked how different in looked, because I just wasn’t used to seeing it. It also just worked with my personal interior style. Interesting how we all have different past experiences with decor.

[@lilyroza]

Yeah, the quilts and woven blankets on the wall are overdone, and often a careless afterthought. But some of those quilts and woven blankets and rugs are incredible works of art, and if they work with the feel of the room, why not? I would rather see a well made art quilt than most of the mindless and meaningless modern abstracts and art that people usually hang. Also, the good stuff needs to be preserved. Please don't shame people for hanging it. I wish I had some of the old-fashioned handmade art that my grandparents hung in their homes, which my father and stepmother just threw out. When they threw it out, it was probably considered old-fashioned, common-place and passé. Preserve the best of the past. I love Valentina's style, and I know that as a designer, she has to present a cohesive style. But in my humble opinion, she could use a touch of the boho, an occasional eclectic and/or colorful and random beautiful object. I'm very boho, and I like Valentina, because her style balances out my own cozy arty eclecticism.

[@LivingInChrysalis]

NGL That quilt collage wall was AMAZING!

[@63Lsp]

I actually have appreciated the mid-century touches in V's home (mushroom lamp, sputnik chandelier, some of the art and shapes elsewhere)😊Maybe she mainly means the splayed-leg furniture style. I do try to avoid the house looking like anyone could live there. In the old days we called it a Pottery Barn showroom. So I appreciate the warm personal touches💜

[@lilyroza]

I can't stand the splayed legs, especially in tight spaces, they cause more trips and falls.

[@ellegunning]

One of the best videos ever! Thank you Valentina for sharing your lovely outlook on designs. I’m a fashion designer for a few decades and after working with color all day, I too want a neutral palette to come home to. It’s calm and serene and an added bonus is you can see when things need cleaning 😂. Love your sweet attitude towards carefully coaching your personal style thoughts! Bravo

[@sinat422]

Haha brave Valentina 😂 How to tell all of us to clean up our home,, get rid of dusty photoes that froze a moment in our life. Live in the moment and organize our memories in nice boxes and photo books. You are doing a great job V! ❤❤

[@ashley_hepworth]

You had me until no family photos haha! I am a family portrait photographer, and I believe so strongly in hanging your portraits on your walls if they make you happy or appreciate nostalgia.

[@MmeO]

You do you - no apologies!!! We're here to learn, get tips, enjoy your joie de vivre! Thank you for sharing honest you!

[@HouseofValentina]

Yes! Thank you!

[@jbridges9574]

I have quite a bit of brown in my house because of flooring and antique and vintage furniture, baskets, branches in vases, etc. I don’t have any brown upholstery though. I considered it, but I changed my mind. One of my friends has had a leather chair that’s lighter- closer to cognac colored and through the years she’s decorated to bring out the brown tones but now she’s drawn out the orange tones that go with her blue palette and it looks amazing. The chair is almost 20 years old and everyone at our last house party wanted to know where she bought it.

[@lananorris1688]

Loved your video and yes, our decor as we grow/mature does change. However, my family and my photos of my family are my prized possessions. They bring me joy and bring back so many memories. Especially as my sons have grown up, moved on, and now I have grandchildren. Not to mention losing my dad - who was amazing. I believe to each their own and I think your home should reflect who you are. My family is my joy and I want a home that offers joy/comfort to anyone who comes here, not a staged decor. Staged decor is great for some, but not my thing. And don’t even get me started on my dogs, volunteer work with service dogs, and my garden. ❤❤❤

[@pamelahowell2082]

Hold on! Jack has an office space? In your home? Why have we never seen it?!!! He's such an integral part of The House of Valentina.. c'mon, let's have a butchers! 👀

[@lilyroza]

Let Jack have his own space that he is comfortable in, which doesn't have to withstand the scrutiny of a bunch of snobby, judgemental wanna-be interior designers. Let him be himself. He is such a delight, so charming and supportive of Valentina, he looks at her with so much love. Okay, ladies and gays, let's not be too intrusive. Valentina is the interior designer, not Jack.

[@gizziejubilee]

When i got my first home i was really into Tuscan home decor and now im like ugh what was i thinking olive oil bottles and wrought-iron everything lol its been about 10 years my style has definitely changed.

[@dianebaum4682]

But…. If u are watching a movie with an Italian kitchen in Italy to me they looks so inviting and beautiful!

[@sarahouser3100]

I agree, I think decorating is the exploration of one’s style. I don’t ever put a vase down with a forever commitment. Your videos have totally set me free to grow with my transitional style. Thank you Valentina.

[@EAJurk]

Side note: those arm muscles look great!!! 💪

[@andreajgunn]

Great video! I haven’t had any family photos on the walls for many years, but just in the last few months I’ve found myself evolving (or kind of devolving I guess) back to the idea of a gallery wall of my kids photos. And now that I’m nearing 40, I want photos of my parents in there too. But I’ve been going over ideas in my head of how to make it look very updated and chic with matching frames and matting. Also, it will be in a less conspicuous place in my upstairs hall/loft area.

[@julieoblouk7332]

It is so hard to let go of those meaningful items that bring memories of friends and family, but you’re right. To achieve the style that you encourage, you must let go and move forward! I have been in my current house for 27 years and it’s gone through so many color changes, decor and furniture removals, etc. I like it for now, but the home is ever evolving to be sure!

[@toosense]

I wish I could do that! My husband usually doesn’t get involved in my decorating but he is super attached to a large brown, reclining leather sectional. Makes it very hard to update the house.

[@theshells6873]

NEVER EVER EVER get rid of meaningful items because some chick on youtube says you should - meaning by definition means making our lives rich, don't toss that away become some lady who loves the Yin and yang symbol and decided to do her entire house in it told you that you should.

[@ChristyAndre62]

Really enjoyed this video today. More professional and less hysteria- more pleasant to watch.

[@magz5660]

You're not alone. When we moved into our new place in 2008 none of the family photos that were displayed in our previous home ever went up. And replacing my current red kitchen aid stand mixer for an off white colored one is currently on my to do list too LOL!

[@pamelarogers575]

Hi Valentina! I love your channel and i love your decorating style and advice. Your home is exquisite and everything flows together perfectly. I get a lot of inspiration from watching your channel and have purchased many things you have recommended. Personally, i struggle with the difference between a house that looks staged and is devoid of personal touches and a house that shows love and warmth and feels comforting and inviting for others, particularly my large often visiting family. My children used to call my home “the museum. I had to decide what was more important to me..having the perfect home that looks like an upscale hotel or a staged model home or having one the family wants to gather in and create lasting memories. As a designer, having a home that is perfectly curated suits your lifestyle style and is a wonderful reflection of you…one to be greatly admired. However, i feel for most people, it’s about balance…hence keeping that quilt that grandma made, or having photos of the grandchildren on the wall above your desk or allowing your husband to hang a bit of his memorabilia that means so much to him…while doing your best to keep iyour home looking lovely…that way your home becomes a gift to others as well. Just my thoughts….

[@rachelturner8286]

I like how you describe needing balance. It would be great to have inspiration and advice on how to achieve that and have the sentimental worked in to the home in tasteful ways.

[@Asphodel27one]

I’ll be glad to take every midcentury item you don’t want. I love it (and Craftsman). To each her own!

[@sarahjensen8095]

I love that you don’t get red roses. I always tell my kids I love white flowers and greenery. I’ll keep them forever but when a bunch of different colors I won’t throw them but I don’t enjoy them as much because they stick out and clash with the colors of my home

[@heidiparker7222]

I'm exactly the same! Glad to hear I'm not the only one who doesn't enjoy colored flowers, and I can't stand roses!

[@toosense]

Same here. The only flowers I get excited over are white lilies.

[@heidiparker7222]

@@toosense Yes! Me too!

[@lindahirschfeld5146]

Hi Valentina. I think a key idea here is editing. I find that I try to integrate pieces rather than giving them away or selling them, and my style takes on a life of its own. People are amazed at my decor, because I have a lot of really great items that I've accumulated over the years, and I have gotten more sophisticated in editing, arranging, displaying. However, it's not the calm, elevated look I really have in mind! Thank you for giving us the incentive and permission to move on. I have had so many great ideas because of you, and you've definitely had a wonderful influence on me - here's to the journey!!!❤

[@sarahcook8793]

Great tips! I love your point- that brown is a color. We have very distinct medium to dark wood floors in the main spaces of our home, along with several wood furniture pieces. I noticed when I started mixing in brown decor accessories like couch pillow covers, bowls, etc. here and there that it feels way more cohesive & intentional!!

[@elizabethdominis730]

I like the big tapestries I see in vogue magazine and other high end publications where they mix it in modern, neutral decor. Seems to work, the old with new.

[@Angie29449]

Thank you for mentioning family photos. Totally agree!

[@elizabethverne7650]

All of these I agree with. I did do a wall of enlarged photos of my kids in black and white on a very large wall in our lower level. However upstairs people wouldn’t even know i have a family😂. I did do an accent wall leading into our bedroom with black and white photos of our wedding and I love how it turned out.

[@theshells6873]

Black and White can be neutrals but in the case of Valentia, black and white are used as colours. Your home is your personal space of refuge, love and light - if photos bring you joy use them, if quilts bring you joy then use them. Never let a KZbin person rob you of joy. Joy is more valuable than a priceless work of art. Joy never goes out of style.

[@dammikaranatunga9395]

I had to stop this video to go check out your back story. Omg Valentina, my admiration for you even more now. Growing up, i was like you, I'd collect travel pictures and magazines instead of boy band posters. Huge fanatic of geography and world politics and that's what brought me to the US as a child of a diplomat. I admired your connection with your husband and now to know your love story, wow just wow. Love you both and your story. ❤

[@robinbirdj743]

Too stark, and you’re living in black and white? I think you definitely meant „ too jazzy.“ But not too stark! You have edited out color but still love the bold, even „ stark“ contrast.

[@kellyconnor8244]

I love how you give interior design advice in such a positive way and never look down on people who may not have the resources to completely change things. There’s never any hint of snobbishness. Plus how you use your mum as backup 😊❤

[@HouseofValentina]

Thank you so much!

[@robb6170]

Good video, I agree that many of those items outdate our homes, but I do have an extra large Belgian tapestry on the stairwell that I love, and that is staying in place😄.

[@nelyazavgorodneva5214]

Red really nice on Christmas

[@vangitaron6681]

I loved this video! I can relate with allowing your “style” self to evolve and adapt. I, too, got married at 19 and it was country blue and peach country decor for me all the way back then. Now I’m wayyyy less country, but still have those roots for sure. In our massive main-level renovation of our in-laws house that we purchased three years ago, I got tons of inspo from Pinterest and MUCH from your videos, Valentina. I resonated with so much of your vibe and aesthetic (modern organic ❤). But I’ve also had to allow myself to adjust what I saw (and created) from inspo into what was more “me.” Example: I lean more toward “library love” on my bookshelves than “sculpture love.” I’m just not as artistic in that way, and so I allowed myself to blend the two. End result, I find my heart happy and comforted. It’s an ongoing process, for sure, and I’m still playing around with the balance, but that’s where the joy is! Thanks a ton for all your influence and input! If you’re ever in Oregon, stop by wine country in McMinnville and know you’ve got a friend (and winery recommendations.) ❤

[@BrianJones1120]

I always get a kick out of your videos... but its my turn to give you something to think about. Have you ever asked yourself what your house says to someone when they walk in for the first time? I think your house says, Hello! Come in, have a seat, make yourself at home... BUT, dont touch anything lol! If you want to feel more calm... STEP AWAY FROM THE NESPRESSO MACHINE, and get yourself a color blocked rug LOL

[@4piercey]

I so appreciate Valentina's statements about how it's ok to evolve and that we have permission to change our opinions over time! It's amazing when you realize that a new-to-you style or colour is what gets you excited to change your design. I just learned at 30 years old that I don't hate all tones of orange, orange is not the enemy😂

[@martikahomes9614]

It’s like your talking about my decor journey 😂…..

[@photog66]

Pretty much everything you don't like anymore is what I love. Red has always been my favorite color and when I was younger, in the 90"s, I use to decorate with it all the time but now not so much but still need a small pop here and there. I'm naturally attracted to red but try not to decorate with it as much but I still love it. I think to love red, you may be more of an artistic type. It's not for everyone. Right now I have a brown leather Restoration Hardware sofa and I love it. It looks more earthy for me. I use to have an electric blue velvet sofa so the brown leather is more neutral for me. I love a good pattern rug. A neutral solid rug is boring for me. I need my pop. It adds flavor and spark to a room. I'm not into themes in homes but I do have a current theme: An art gallery in Africa so I have African pieces plus art throughout my home. I'm not opposed to hanging tapestry or a cool funky rug on my wall but haven't done that but I have framed African fabric and hung it on my wall. I think It's all about style and taste because the trend of all neutral homes I find too boring for my taste level but I do like your more black and white compared to the all beige look that has been trending for the past several years. I can do an all neutral in my bedroom where I want a more calming surrounding but the areas where I entertain, I want to be more of a statement conversation area. But your home always looks very luxe and classic.

[@Ann1234]

I think it’s great that you do you! That’s what we all should do.

[@susanfindell6154]

I think your home is decorated perfectly for Atlanta, and you. I also think that my home with brown leather and a lot of red accents, is perfect for me, as I live at a ski resort 😊

[@sadie4289]

Then go for it girl.whatever brings happiness and comfort to your home

[@GlamGoddessKe]

I love the Transitional Style of decorating but these tips for just taking a neutral palette with base pieces is great advice. Switching up decorative pieces is a lot easier that replacing a beautiful red couch…..trust me I had one back in the day that I wanted to get rid of and turns out it was kind of a “me” item that ended up at the Goodwill lol

[@Jennifer-nz2ss]

I also don't "decorate" with family photos either. I always use other pieces, usually from nature.

[@barby-v5e]

You’re my guru! My tastes are similar to yours but I can’t always put my finger on what I want . You have that ability and I’m grateful! Being a designer it’s your job to understand what can stand the test of time and what are phases. It’s all good! No different than the ever changing styles of clothing and yet there are some things that are a constant. All this makes life exciting- loving your home makes for happiness everyday. I would like to give you the biggest thank you for “Midnight Oil” by Benjamin Moore! I finally dared to paint it over my white kitchen cabinets as I have old ones that don’t go to the ceiling. It is a luxurious color that is not too bold but is full of richness. It gave my kitchen the depth it needed without breaking the bank. I can’t thank you enough

[@cmam888]

I stop using family photos as decor. When my mother in law noticed, she started to gift us pictures frames for every occasion lmaoo picture frames with the lovely sayings “live, love, laugh… blessed… together with love family“ lol

[@30shebaby]

😂

[@jbridges9574]

I have a few of the things you mentioned and I’m not offended in the least! I would be more upset if someone took out what they loved because you said so! It’s one thing to consider another point of view but something else to blindly follow. ❤

[@feonasmith9226]

My husband and I got married in our early twenties, this year will be our 25th anniversary, no kids. Like you, we lived in several different countries, we packed up and sold things each time (we're from the Caribbean). I'm nostalgic, so I always carried some of my things with me. My mother gave me the dining room set I grew up with (it's genuine mahogany). I have carried it everywhere. It's over 50 years old now, a 6 seater and fits great in apartments, townhouses, and now that we're back home, still the right size for a manor sized home. - I HATE mid century modern. I grew up with it and I don't ever want to see it again. - Having tried out so many different styles during the process of moving around as you mentioned, including a stint off in college where we did a lot of hand me downs, I have a much better idea of things that remain classic and don't get dated quickly. Neutrals are calming and last the test of time, just like high quality furniture. - Black accents are my new best friend. Hard to get more sophisticated than that. I've been a huge thrifter long before it became a thing and have collected a house full of treasures this way. - As for the nude photo you mentioned, in New York I visited someone's townhouse which had an almost life size painting of an unusual sexual act as you entered the front door. I guess it used to be a thing. - I love decorating with family photos now that I'm doing modern manor style. It just works. Also pictures of places we have actually visited and fun activities we have done like horseback riding etc. I don't know if it is an age thing (I'm approaching 50), but I decorate with things I love, trendy or not. It should mean something to me. It's like a warm security blanket, being surrounded by the things I love and enjoy seeing everyday. This includes family pics and mementos of our adventures. I don't care if it's in style or not. 🙂

[@heatherlewis6457]

Having married into a very large family, I have a photo frame of my husband's parents & all his siblings on the wall. It has been a wonderful tool for teaching the younger generations who their aunts & uncles are. The Great nieces & nephews are also learning how they are connected to the people they see coming in & out of their homes. ( Some days can be like a railway station) 🤣I then have another frame filled with the nieces & nephews, as the hubby has a hard time just keeping up with his siblings & was complaining that youngsters were talking to him & he didn't have a clue who they were. 🤣As Valentina said you have to find what suits & works for you and that decorating is an evolving process which changes with us as we grow. Thank you V.

[@lisaclarke0192]

As beautiful as your home is and it truly is; it's very curated and has a narrow bandwidth. I do believe that was the point of your video. I, too, am a designer and a manager over a design team for a National company. I would be open to any and all colors, fabrics, and textures that make a client happy and grounded in their own space. After all, if they go home at night and it feels like your home but not their home, then I would consider that a design fail. Additionally, I find you so approachable and lovely that you have been required viewing for our young design associates. Because you are clearly passionate and talented, it might be time to consider expanding your design vision. White, black, cream, and beige may not be applicable to a traditional Georgian or true Mediterranean or a beautiful low country style home. Valentina, you are a gifted communicator and teacher; it would be a treat to watch you stretch your design eye and teach how to embrace color, mixed styles, and moods. I would look forward to those instructional videos. Ps: I agree family photos are " generally" not used in my public spaces of a home unless creatively presented. I prefer these in the family quarters, but if my client wants it, then we make it a special presentation. Thank you for you many wonderful videos. My team very much appreciates your hard work and professionalism.

[@anaalves3658]

I totally agree that we grow and evolve and so does our style. Our first home was a more cottage style home and we had pieces that fitted that look. Then we out grew it and built a modern home, most of the furniture we bought new. Then we moved continent's and only airfreighted a few things. Our style has evolved again. I think that the thing that keeps me from experimenting more is the cost and the fear of not liking it once i have spent the money. I have in the last 2 months been framing and reframing art, some which we have owned for about 20 years others which we inherited a few months ago. I am really enjoying it and the pieces that we have had for years but now have a new mount and frame look fresh and exciting. Sometimes you just need a few new cushion covers and a bunch of flowers to change the look and feel of your home. It's a journey not a final destination.

[@joycesolomon4215]

My style is so different. I call it coffee shop eclectic. Putting things together that don’t go together but somehow work.

[@Celeste-.-marie]

Instead of hanging photos on the wall, I have started to create photobooks of special occasions like vacations and our wedding on Walmarts website. They take up almost no space and they're an easy way to share your photos with others if you want to. I keep them on a shelf under my coffee table. Sometimes i would hang up a few in a hallway, it just depends on the layout.

[@denisecarpenter4326]

A few years ago I just decided I didn’t like displaying family photos anymore. I think it just makes me feel a little bit like I’m living in the past. I do however have a few special ones in my office where no one but me goes in there. I too feel a little guilty when my grandchildren come to visit. Your videos are very entertaining. Thx!

[@toosense]

I don’t use my family photos in my decor either. A relative came to visit and noticed, she asked why I didnt have family photos out. I said I didn’t need them, I know what they look like. Lol

[@elizabethdaniels51]

I love your style so much and I love the whole calming thing. That is exactly the way I’ve been going since my 50’s. The stripes thing on rugs is so cool maybe in a kids room or a small room or a basement. But the neutral rug with more subtle tone on tone in a larger room is the way I would go now, too! You don’t ever need to apologize before you state your thing. Just state it and stand strong in it.

[@twigcreation]

Quilts on the wall comment… I get it! Me too!… but let me tell you when I moved to northern Michigan into an unfinished house….meaning there was no drywall, just studding and insulation, I covered that mess with quilts. I cannot tell you the people who came into my home and commented on how cozy my house was. There is a time and place for everything. Quilts on the walls were a life saver for me and my family at that time.

[@misspam4723]

Luxury to me is having a beautiful designed space that is functional my family & i can actually enjoy:) i use to freak out every time someone sat in my living room 😅 i started feeling a sadness in my home 😢 i completely learned how to design beautifully around the function of my family ❤ i luv a beautiful space.

[@OlgaRodriguez-qw5bc]

Great video. I think you are right. Our styles change over time and it's not just trends.. we go through phases and that's ok.. enjoy the journey!

[@scenecaptured]

Glad you pointed out the family photos. I don’t hang them on walls. I don’t even like putting a small picture on side tables. I did for just a little while and it bugged me so much that I took it off. That’s just me. However, I sometimes enjoy looking at people’s family photos on their walls.

[@karlabarefoot8382]

You do you is what I say. I love classic and timeless Your home is beautiful. I love your advice and I have learned a lot from you. You are so right a neutral palette is more cost effective when you want to make little changes here and there.

[@user-fr5kv5cc1u]

Love you!!! Just starting with that. I have taken so many design tips from you and my home is ever evolving after a separation and new marriage with a husband with stuff and now with bringing in memories and Momentos from his folks’s home trying to incorporate them into a cohesive non-cluttered, beautiful place to be, and I do it all with your help. Thank you.

[@patriciaparis9611]

One of the things I like most about your videos is that you always challenge your viewers to really think about what brings them the most satisfaction in their home and what is it that takes away from their satisfaction, then doing something about it within their means.

[@mireyaharo6977]

I totally agree with every single word you said 💯 our home is supposed to make us feel happy every time we come through our front door and be proud of it and love every little detail we work so hard to get perfect I absolutely love redecorating changing things it's so fun I can't get enough of it😅

[@ladym6738]

As an artist working with paints, collage, colors, neutrals help rest the eye yet that does not necessarily dictate deleting life favorites. Love your sweet energy. Blessings.

[@sandydupey]

Thank you Valentina, you truly inspire me and as I have moved two times in the past year and a half I learned how to decorate my home more sophisticated and all because of you! Thank you!!❤

[@melissaingram1765]

Love this video! I appreciate your lovely wrapup of blessing others with the things that no longer bring you joy. Perfect!✨

[@marilyn6905]

Ok, ok...I may have to re-subscribe! I'm always a sucker for hearing how people evolve overtime & as their living situations change & resources expand & contract. My Grandmother had the same childhood photos of her grandchildren on display in her living room for 30++ years! I have limited my warm nostalgia to a wooden photo rolodex on a side table which I enjoy picking up from time to time & reminiscing. (Then, of course, more recent events are readily at hand on my phone.) While many Real Estate Open Houses beg for improvements, on occasion I have attended one & thought " these people CAN'T MOVE...their furnishings are PERFECT for this home"! I have much enjoyed the changes Valentina has made to her home, though my style is not the same. My own evolution has incorporated a few of her much-loved colorways/items. My family heirloom drop-leaf dining table overlooking my garden now sports black/rattan placements with black/tan napkins! I still love my traditional Brown Leather wing back recliner which now contrasts with newer nubby White sofas! And...dare I admit...the Red Rug with multicolored "dots" in my family room still " elevates" my mood 20 years later!!!

[@Lifes_Frosting]

I agree with all of this. We mature and evolve over time and become a new version of ourselves. It's only natural that the outer world (our home) would reflect that inner change.

[@JLC48]

I agree with most of your 'canceled' items and had to smile at you throughout this video. But I can't live without my family photo's. They are treasured images of those I love...so many who I have lost.

[@kaylene8426]

❤yess!! Thank you for talking about photos on walls!! And also tons of tabletop photos of deceased loved ones is depressing.. at least to me. I like to remember them in my heart. Just my personal preference though. Others may get comfort from seeing photos every day i guess! Thanks for sharing your ideas and opinions-- I'm a fan!❤

[@msmomg338]

Valentina, I agree with you 1000%. I just moved into my brand new farmhouse home and so excited about decorating in a modern style with a black,white, grey, beige netural pallet. My husband is going to be the issue, because he wants to add more suggestions than I need. But I feel really good after listening to this review. I'm feel like I'm on the right track for beauty, comfort and design. I would like to see you do a video on window treatments you're using in your home designs. Thanks! 🙂

[@theshells6873]

Your husband is right, add some personality - Yin and yang is a symbol, not a house style.

[@candicane1]

Love your makeup and eyebrows are on point!

[@fionaschiffl8065]

Yes! I’m a wall art quilter and I don’t want quilts on the wall. I do them for the challenge. I’m happy I’ve set myself the goal of going to a neutral palette, the colour scheme in my house is so depressing and chaotic. The ex didn’t want anything on the walls for a long time but now I’m putting up my art up wherever I want and loving it. Long ago I was going to put up family pics but didn’t think that was going to be the look I was after. Glad I didn’t.

[@lesliejohnson8177]

Totally agree Love Love this video. Especially the rugs

[@robinmariegould5314]

Omgosh, Valentina, spot on! I grew up in the country in New England, Stars, plaid, painted wood, you get the picture! When I moved to Arizona in 2010, all I saw was Southwest/New Mexico type decor and I was in style chaos! 😂 My current home style has evolved (thanks to you and another KZbin designer) To a mostly neutral palate, a collected and curated style I like to call “country elegance.” I have none of the things I used for decor in the past, like you I have “passed them on…” 😂 In honor of my new Southwest home, I have two small niches that have Native American art pieces purchased from the actual artist that we love. My subtle nod to my New England heritage are, again, two handmade items, a drop leaf table and a vase, that blend in to anyone else, but fill me with joy ever time I see them. To me, a home isn’t just about style, it’s about what you love, what defines your personal “style.” I love that you share your own personal style for us to enjoy, and steal for updating our homes as well. You are a blast to watch and I appreciate you! ❤

[@dom5401]

This video is refreshing to hear and makes me feel secure about my neutral choices. My work is stressful enough so after a 12h shift, I do not need sensory overload. Thank you Valentina for sharing because I agreed with you, especially on the family photos. I feel weird putting them out.

[@theshells6873]

Valentina's house is anything but neutral and it is very much Yin and yang themed.

[@livvylove2527]

I started taking photos and have been printing them for my house. Not really family photo style but black and white art. I did take one hall and put two giant black and white photos of my cat and I love it.

[@Haidi533]

I have seen this video twice, every single thing is exact how I feel, the legs on sofa rugs wood color red, and the way some display family photos. I am from Norway, and your style is most beautiful for me it feels homy.

[@spfisterer3651]

12:22 cohesive. I think you were looking for the word cohesive. At least that's what I was thinking 😂

[@RR-ep6uc]

Perfect video. Loved that you explain your décor process. Very helpful

[@lolasalesmoore236]

Very inspiring video V!!! I love trying new things!!!

[@heidijones1516]

Hi Valentina, this is really good advice. you´re so cute about not wanting to offend or hurt peoples feelings. A very wise woman told me yrs ago that if photos are displayed they should be kept in the private rooms of the house. I think a well done hall gallery can be an exception but even a hall is out of the main public space. The red craze was too much, red rooms, furniture etc so jarring except at Christmas time. I remember 25+ yrs ago when the gray trend started in California, cool tones left me feeling uninspired and flat, like a cold overcast day. Gray that leans warm or is mixed with pastels can be nice but when every room in the house is built around gray? I am surprised that trend has lasted as long as it did, happy to say bye-bye!

[@danielaradolovic4613]

This is one of your best videos ever! I agree with you about everything, especially using the red color and mid century modern furniture. I thought I was the only one!

[@michaelastasova4555]

I have my family photos on my desk -in my bedroom. So when I work I can look at them and instantly know why am I working. 😁🤭

[@emilypalmquist]

I live in Scandinavia and i agree with you- it´s been 2 much of mid-century interiors the last couple of years, inuff is inuff:) Hälsningar från Sverige!

[@MariTWC]

I really like the honest talk vibe of this program.... Nice one!

[@LadyY2U]

I feel the same re: All you said 😂 You change & nothing stays the same 😊

[@bettystanbery310]

I agree with all your “I don’t dos” with 2 exceptions. I have charcoals of each of my 3 children done by a street artist in Rome. Currently in storage but they will return. Also have a red chair in a modern design with cream scroll like flowers. Impossible to describe but somehow I just can’t let it go. It has a joie de vivre that lifts my spirit.

[@jyo.95110]

Your videos have inspired my home decorating style and outlook. I am learning and appreciating more as I watch each one. Thank you!

[@CPARROWHEAD]

I agree with everything you had to say in this video! People can do what they want!

[@mariacooke1864]

Hi Valentina I’m in Ireland and I absolutely love your videos. I love interior design and look forward to your videos. You have been a big inspiration to me. Thank you for sharing your knowledge xx